James Alun James & Jonathan Ure

Findings — machine-extracted (anthropic-batch:claude-opus-4-8); verify against the decision

Two solicitor partners of Alun James & Co admitted five allegations of failing to comply with four conveyancing undertakings and failing to comply promptly with a county court disclosure order. No dishonesty was alleged or found. Given it was their third appearance before the Tribunal (having previously been fined in 2002 and 2008 for similar matters), the Tribunal found a fine inappropriate and struck both off the Roll to protect the public and the reputation of the profession, ordering each to pay £12,500 costs jointly and severally, not enforceable without leave given their dire financial circumstances.

Duties found breached:

• Full disclosure on ex parte applications
• Non-discriminatory acceptance and cab-rank
• Advise on alternatives, settlement and outcome
• No conflict between current clients

Aggravating factors:

• Third appearance before the Tribunal
• Previously fined in January 2008 for very similar allegations
• Multiple matters/undertakings involved
• Reckless disregard for a Court Order
• Conduct likely to bring the profession into serious disrepute

Mitigating factors:

• No dishonesty alleged or found
• Not wilfully negligent
• Allegations admitted
• Financial difficulties caused by downturn in conveyancing market
• Remorse and apology
• Testimonial and offer of supervision from Mr Bogan
• Errors partly arising from incorrect information from mortgagees/employees